lau·da·num

laudanum

laudanum

a tincture of opium made from a solution of macerated raw opium and 50% alcohol. It is believed to have originated as a secret remedy of Paracelsus, sixteenth century Swiss alchemist and physician.

lau·da·num

(law'dă-nŭm)

An older medicinal syrup or tincture that contains opium.

[G. lēdanon, a resinous gum]

laudanum

A solution of crude opium in alcohol (tincture of opium). The alkaloids of opium are now refined and separated and prescribed as specific drugs. Laudanum was once casually recommended for a wide range of conditions.

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